Week 6 Update

Figure 1: Drawing the plans onto the foam

We have begun working with the Depron (the sheet in Figure 1). As noted in last week's update, the foam requires heat in order to enter into a malleable state. The material appears to grow harder and more brittle as it is exposed to more heat. We are currently working on creating models with a 12" wingspan in order to fit inside the wind tunnels for aerodynamic examination. Following the plans of the glider (see week 3's update) as well as the Creo model (see Figure 2 below), we have found working dimensions for the physical models.

Figure 2: Creo Model of Glider

We should have working models by the end of this week and will begin testing and drafting of the final report within the next two weeks.

It should be noted that Depron is not particularly easy to work with; though without heat the material is fairly malleable, it still snaps easily while trying to handle it.